More Is More? Why the Maximalism Trend Might Be a Risky Bet When Selling Your San Diego Home
After years of minimalist white walls and sparse, neutral decor, a bold new trend has taken the design world by storm: maximalism. It is a celebration of color, pattern, and personality, a philosophy where "more is more." But as a recent Realtor.com article, titled "Maximalism Is Having a Big Moment in Design, but Can It Help You Sell Your Home?" asks, does this vibrant trend translate to success in the real estate market? For homeowners in San Diego, a city known for its light, bright, and coastal aesthetic, embracing maximalism could be a particularly risky gamble.
Maximalism, at its best, is a curated and confident expression of personal style. It is about layering textures, mixing patterns, and surrounding yourself with objects you love. Think bold accent walls, vibrant wallpaper, and eclectic collections of art and furniture. While this can create a home that is deeply personal and full of character, it can also be a major turnoff for potential buyers. The very thing that makes a maximalist space unique is also what can make it difficult for a buyer to envision themselves living there. A design that is too personal can feel like you are walking into someone else's life, rather than a blank canvas for your own.
In the world of home staging, the goal is to appeal to the widest possible audience. This is why the traditional advice has always been to neutralize and depersonalize. While the stark minimalism of the past may be on its way out, the core principle remains the same: you want buyers to focus on the home itself, not your decorating choices. A bold, maximalist design can be distracting and can even make a space feel smaller or more cluttered than it actually is.
For the San Diego market in particular, the maximalist trend can be a tough sell. Our city's real estate identity is so closely tied to the concept of indoor outdoor living, natural light, and a relaxed, coastal vibe. Buyers here are often looking for spaces that feel open, airy, and connected to the beautiful environment around them. A heavy, dark, or overly busy maximalist design can feel at odds with this desired lifestyle. It can compete with the natural beauty of a canyon view or the bright light streaming in from a wall of windows.
So, does this mean you have to strip your home of all personality before you sell? Absolutely not. The key is to find a balance, to be strategic in how you express your style.
Advice for Sellers: Instead of going full maximalist, think in terms of "strategic pops" of personality. A single, beautifully wallpapered accent wall can be a stunning feature, while papering an entire room might be overwhelming. A few bold, colorful throw pillows can bring life to a neutral sofa. A curated collection of art can add sophistication, while a cluttered gallery wall can feel chaotic. The goal is to create a space that feels stylish and memorable, without being polarizing. And when in doubt, it is always a good idea to consult with a professional home stager who understands the local market and can help you strike the right balance.
Advice for Buyers: When you are touring homes, try to look past the seller's decor and focus on the bones of the house. A room with a wild wallpaper can be easily repainted. A cluttered space can be cleared out. Do not let a seller's maximalist style prevent you from seeing the potential of a great property. Pay attention to the layout, the natural light, and the architectural features. These are the things that truly matter in the long run.
Ultimately, selling a home is about marketing a product, and the most successful products have broad appeal. While maximalism can be a fun and exciting way to express your personal style, it is a trend that is best enjoyed while you are living in your home, not when you are trying to sell it. When it comes time to put your house on the market, a more edited and strategic approach will almost always lead to a faster sale and a higher price. If you are thinking about selling and are not sure how to best prepare your home, we are here to help. Visit our website to learn more about our proven strategies for success.
This blog post is an analysis of the article "Maximalism Is Having a Big Moment in Design, but Can It Help You Sell Your Home?" published by Realtor.com.